JOHN EMMS MUSIC REVIEWS

Alan Jackson makes real country music, that’s just the plain truth.

And on his new album Angels and Alcohol due out July 17 he hits it out of the park.

No cookie cutter stuff here folks, and thank God there are still artists of Jackson’s credibility.

For his first new cd in 3 years Jackson writes 7 of the 10 tracks.

The stunning less is more approach pays huge dividends on the title track and the opener You Can Always Come Home.

Basically, on those tracks it’s Jackson’s clear and concise vocals, an acoustic guitar, some banjo, a dobro here, a fiddle there.

And feel, folks.

You know that long forgotten element that is devoid for the most part in country songs sounding like another and another for the last 5 years.

Band wise things get bumped up on the goodtime “leaving anthem” Jim and Jack and Hank, in reference to Jim Beam, Jack Daniels and Hank Sr

Jackson then goes Roger Miller-esque on the terrific track Flaws. and has a ton of fun with the “temptation” jump of  You Never Know.

Elsewhere Jackson sings the hell out of I Leave A Light On.

Heck Ol’ George Jones is smiling listening to this one.

I guarantee you that folks.

Jackson’s integrity is in full force on Angels and Alcohol

It’s the real deal, let there be no doubt

JOHN EMMS is a veteran music journalist, his blog is read in over 105 countries

JOHN also fronts his own roots rockin’ band THE SHAFTMEN

https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/the-worlds-gone-crazy/id673101570

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